######## surrounding the article denotes it is a “press release”
and was not written by Leasing News nor information verified, but from the source noted. When an article is signed by the writer, it is considered a “by line.” It reflects the opinion and research of the writer. It is considered “bias” as it is the writer’s viewpoint.

"FinPac has lowered their best rates by 400 bps to 12%. While our focus is still in our second tier credit niche with appropriate pricing, we are trying to respond to our TPO's (third party originators) needs in that better rate segment. We believe that our historical knowledge and the experience we've gained over the past two years helps us properly identify and price for risk."

In 2007, the FBI investigation dubbed "Operation Lease Fleece" indicted over 23 in their roles in a fraud scheme that allegedly caused more than $20 million in losses to several lending institutions that believed they were financing equipment leases. Many were disguised "sale/leasebacks" or leases that exceeded the "soft costs" such as software and installation. Many were on ghost equipment. Adam Zuckerman told Leasing News he set up phony bank accounts, trade references, fake vendors, knew how to fool site inspections, and existed before the days of Lease Police. It is very doubtful that this operation by those named could exist today in the fashion they were operating.

Actually court filings of guilty plea filings began November 7, 2007.

Readers ask Leasing News when will the sentencing begin? Both the FBI and US Attorney Generals office, on the record, indicate they consider the case on going, have more to name. Friends in enforcement state it appears in sentencing evidence will be revealed when sealed files are opened, which evidently will effect the current investigation.

Changes have occurred with evidently only one trial now in the works. Named are Shant (Chant) Vartanian, president of ISystems Technology and Solutions, 3650 East Olympic Boulevard, Los Angeles, California, and his brother, Sarkus Vartanian, Vice-President, Marketing, as individuals. They are still in business, as well as working with several Southern California leasing companies. One company allegedly working with the Vartanian brothers is owned by the top salesman for CapitalWerks for five years, now a CLP and National Association of Leasing Broker’s Best Practice Broker.

The Vartanian Brothers trial date was moved to November 9, 2010.

Chance Nell Weaver and Michael Scott Grayson were the latest to plead guilty, leaving the Vartanian Brothers the only accused to stand trial as the rest have plead guilty.

The latest sentencing:

Leo J. Najera, July 20th JUDGMENT AND COMMITMENT by Judge Cormac J. Carney as to Defendant Leo J Najera (1), Count(s) 1, Defendant is sentenced to 1 day imprisonment, which the Court determines has been served. Pay $100 special assessment. Pay total restitution of $396,251.22. The defendant shall be held jointly and severally liable with convicted co-participants Mark McQuitty (Docket No SACR 07-236-CJC) and James Raeder (Docket No SACR 07-237-CJC) for the full amount of restitution ordered in this judgment. Interest on restitution ordered waived. Placed on supervised release for 3 years under terms and conditions of US Probation Office and General Orders 318 and 01-05.

Previously sentenced:

James H Breedlove: “12 months and 1 day imprisonment, with credit for time served. Pay $100 special assessment. Pay total restitution of $391,976.25. The defendant shall be held jointly and severally liable with convicted co-participants Mark McQuitty (Docket No. SACR 07-00236-CJC) and James Raeder (Docket No. SACR 07-00237-CJC) for the full amount of restitution ordered in this judgment. Interest on restitution ordered waived. 3 years supervised release under terms and conditions of US Probation Office and General Orders 318 and 01-05.”

Mark Castleman indicted for mail fraud and November 19, 2008 pled guilty. “April 23, 2009. Hearing held before Judge Cormac J. Carney as to Defendant Mark P Castleman. Defendant Mark P Castleman (1), Count(s) 1, 1 day imprisonment, with credit for time served. Pay $100 special assessment. All fines are waived. 3 years supervised release under terms and conditions of US Probation Office and General Order 318. Bond Exonerated. Sixty (60) hours of community service with the first six months.”

Nohad Mousa pled guilty to 18:1341 MAIL FRAUD before Judge Cormac J. Carney. “JUDGMENT AND COMMITMENT by Judge Cormac J. Carney as to Defendant Nohad Mousa (1), Count(s) 1, 6 months imprisonment, time served. Pay $100 special assessment. Pay total restitution of $94,775. Interest on restitution ordered waived. Defendant shall be held jointly and severally liable with co-participant George Simon (Docket No 8:07CR00246) for the amount of restitution ordered in this judgment. All fines are waived. 3 years supervised release under terms and conditions of US Probation Office and General Orders 318 and 01-05. Signed by Judge Cormac J. Carney. “

The majority are basically under "house arrest." Although many get permission to travel, it must be specifically approved by Judge Carney. While out on bail, they are not permitted to engage in financing or leasing in the State of California, particularly, as well as other states. According to California Finance Lender Law, no party may own 10% of finance or leasing company if convicted of a felony. Jim Raeder of CapitalWerks fame told Leasing News he is writing, as well as “buying and selling” equipment off lease, living in Colorado with his family. His partner Mark McQuitty is living in Southern California, reportedly not involved “day-to-day” in CapitalWerks, which is primarily collecting residuals from leases. Others say he is still in leasing, but it may just be “talk.” Adam Zuckerman is still active in “investing,” using other names, not his, something he confessed to Leasing News doing, and confirmed by recent emails from those who have been allegedly working with him.

Here is an up-date of scheduled sentencing to those who have plead guilty to date (it is expected some of these dates will be moved forward, depending on the outcome of the actions by the FBI and US Attorney General’s office:

Chance Nell Weaver Sentencing set for 11/29/2010 10:00 AM before Judge Cormac J. Carney. Court vacates the jury trial date of May 27, 2010 at 9:00 a.m. as to this defendant only. Third STIPULATION to allow Travel to Mexico and England filed by Plaintiff Chance Neil Weaver as to Defendant Michael Scott Grayson, Chance Neil Weaver. It is ordered that defendant Weaver's bond may be modified to allow the following travel: 1. Mexicali and Nogales, Mexico, and; 2. Derbyshire, England; 3. Said travel is restricted to business purposes only, and defendant shall provide Pre-Trial Services with documentation showing a valid business purpose for the travel.

Michael Scott Grayson Sentencing set for 2/7/2011 10:00 AM before Judge Cormac J. Carney. Court vacates the jury trial date of May 27, 2010 at 9:00 a.m. as to this defendant only. Defendant remains on bond under same terms and conditions. Third STIPULATION to allow Travel to Mexico and England filed by Plaintiff Chance Neil Weaver as to Defendant Michael Scott Grayson, Chance Neil Weaver.

Adam Zuckerman sentencing continued to 7/11/2011, the furthest date of those who have pled guilty. Plea agreement as of December 7, 2007 is sealed. It was his building that he sub-leased space for many of those named is allegedly the beginning of Operation Lease Fleece in an organized manner.

Jennifer L Waier has remained the lead attorney for the US Attorney General's office out of Santa Ana, California.

Ironically, the judge who has been handling this is

Hon. Cormac J. Carney, UCLA Football wide receiver Rose Bowl MVP, who after graduating from UCLA, played one season with the Memphis Showboats of the United States Football League. He reportedly passed up San Francisco 49er overtures so he could attend Harvard Law School on an NCAA Post-Graduate Scholarship. (1)

Los Angeles attorneys have told Leasing News both he and his wife remain very popular in the Los Angeles area, almost as when he was top man on the UCLA campus.

Arnstein & Lehr, counsel for Equipment Acquisition Resources, Palatine, Illinois has filed for compensation and reimbursement for expenses for the period October 23,2009 through July 15, 2010; $254,249.50 for legal services and $11,660.63 in expenses. A full breakdown of the work and hours in several detailed charts is available with highlights of 666 attorney hours ( Barry A. Chatz 123.4 hours with 2010 hourly rate $595; George P. Apostolides, 174.2 hours at $420 hourly rate and Kevin H. Morse, 94.5 hours at 2010 hourly rate of $265 (the attorneys rates increase from 2009 to 2010--Chatz from $465 to $595, Apostolides $405 to $420, Morse from $255 to $265.)

Equipment appraisers, brokers, and dealers are viewing what the bankruptcy trustee of Equipment Resource America, Palentine, Illinois can find. Much of it has been double and triple dipped (used many times) and there also is the "ghost" equipment (doesn't exist) that was also leased to E.A.R., almost all from the same dealer.

The trustee is also attempting to obtain income tax paid to the IRS for transactions that did not take place, but taxes paid on them, as well as a separate effort for assets from the main players, including ex-convict Sheldon Player, who is reportedly active on the gambling casino circuit.

There are nine court cases filed against Player and his alleged wife Donna Malone, including Comerica Leasing, Lyon Financia dba US Bancorp Manifest Funding Services, Leasing One Corporation, Home federal Savings * Loan, Red Oak Acquisition fund, ICON, to name a few.

The latest in the IFC Credit Corporation, Morton Grove, Illinois, has a second interim fee and expense filing from Fishman Glantz Wolfson & Towbin LLC, Special Counsel, Fee: $664,464.55, Expenses: $12,960.21. The billing is quite detailed; time stamped, and attorney fees by the Leibowitz seem to be $380 an hour.

Ironically, Advance Property Tax Compliance not only does the filing for many of the banks and companies involved in the bankruptcy, but also for Vencore owned by Ludwig and was also requested by Ludwig to file the Pioneer Capital personal property taxes as the company is familiar with all the leases.

It appears not to be an objection over the company used but a view perhaps from the county tax collectors regarding ownership and liabilities, as well as who is the true owner, as the view from others.

Here is the synopsis of the objection:

"5. The Objectors do not object to the principal relief sought by the Tax Retention Motion, i.e., the retention of APTC as the Trustee's property tax specialists. The Objectors object to the Tax Retention Motion only to the extent that it purports to resolve or seeks to resolve ownership issues pertaining to leases and lease equipment, which are currently being adjudicated in an adversary proceeding filed by the Objectors, Adversary Case No. 10-00453 (the "Adversary Proceeding"), seeking declaratory judgment with regard to such ownership issues. The Objectors dispute any claim of ownership by the Trustee in the Tax Retention Motion that is contrary to the allegations of the Objectors' Complaint in the Adversary Proceeding, and specifically reserve all claims and rights with respect thereto."

It is important as the group led by Len Ludwig is attempting to start-up a leasing company using this portfolio as the means of obtaining a new operation. This is no secret and Ludwig has made these plans public in Leasing News and has hired a firm to represent he and his associates in this search. It may appear that the actual transfer of assets is not under his control, but that of the IFC Credit bankruptcy trustee.

(6. As of the Petition Date, FP Holdings was a wholly owned subsidiary of the Debtor, FPC was a wholly owned subsidiary of FP Holdings, and FPC II was an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of FP Holdings and FPC.

7. As of the Petition Date, Pioneer was a wholly owned subsidiary of the Debtor.

8. On November 17, 2009, the Bankruptcy Court entered its Order Granting Motion of Arthur Levinson and Leonard Ludwig to Lift the Automatic Stay to Foreclose on Certain Pledged Stock (the "November 17 Order").

9. The November 17 Order lifted the automatic stay to permit Arthur Levinson ("Levinson") and Leonard Ludwig ("Ludwig") to exercise their remedies pursuant to those certain Stock Pledge Agreements made effective December 31, 2008 by and between IFC Credit

Corporation as debtor and Levinson and Ludwig as secured parties, pledging 500 shares of common stock of FP Holdings (the "FP Holdings Stock") and 60,000 shares of common stock of Pioneer (the "Pioneer Stock") to Levinson and Ludwig.

10. The FP Holdings Stock constitutes 100% of the ownership of FP Holdings.

11. The Pioneer Stock constitutes 100% of the ownership of Pioneer.

12. On December 21, 2009, following proper statutory notice and public advertisement and marketing, Levinson and Ludwig held a public sale to sell the FP Holdings Stock and the Pioneer Stock.

13. Levinson and Ludwig purchased the FP Holdings Stock and the Pioneer Stock at the public sale, and closed on the purchase on or about January 1, 2010. Consequently, as of January 1, 2010, the Objectors are no longer subsidiaries of the Debtor.

14. After the public sale of the FP Holdings Stock and the Pioneer Stock, Levinson and Ludwig obtained access for the first time to the unconsolidated financial records of the Debtor, separately identifying the Objectors' assets and liabilities.

15. According to the unconsolidated financial records of the Debtor, as of July 31, 2009, FPC is the owner of approximately $83 million in direct finance leases (the "Leases"), as well as all equipment and liabilities associated with the Leases.

16. Moreover, since the public sale of the FP Holdings Stock and the Pioneer Stock, Levinson and Ludwig have begun to obtain access for the first time to the tax filings and other tax records prepared and filed by the Debtor and the Objectors.

17. These tax filings and tax records, prepared and signed under penalty of perjury, further confirm that one or more of the Objectors, and not the Debtor, are the owners of the Leases and thus any equipment related to those Leases."

:WHEREFORE, the Objectors requests that, in the event that this Court grants the Tax Retention Motion, it do so without resolving any issues of lease or equipment ownership, and without prejudice to Objectors' pending claims in the Adversary Proceeding."

Ludwig wrote to Leasing News December 11, 2009:

"The play in this instance is to restart a company with the four legs of the stool in place at the beginning---(1) substantial senior debt, revolving, bank lines, (2) considerable deal flow from loyal vendors, (3) good and talented people at all levels, and, (4) a platform of software and processes conducive to growth under control. I think we have the plan to make that happen, while we successfully repair some of the damage to some of the victims. But, as I said before, it takes many small steps to get there. We are, however, well on the way.

"We have a lot of the bases covered and are now talking to potential investors about raising $10 million to accomplish our goals. The six-year IRR is very attractive for them and a liquidity event to get there seems very realistic. If you think of anyone interested in something like this, all or a significant piece of the total, please let me know or have them use your name as an introduction. One of my mottos is ‘Givers get.’ Enough said.

In the meantime, the former CEO and founder of IFC Credit Corporation Rudolph "Rudy" Trebels is named in the three bankruptcy cases, one involving the corporation alone, one with Leibowitz and First Chicago Bank and Trust, as well as Leibowitz and Trebels. He is also named as an individual in three other cases, CoActiv Capital Partners (twice), Manufacturers and Traders Trust. He has started a new leasing company called Equipment Leasing Group of America. He is no longer a Certified Leasing Professional and reportedly his new company was turned down trying to join two leasing associations.

The tenth bank to file against Allied Health Care Services, Orange, New Jersey and its owner Charles K. Schwartz is United Western Bank, Denver, Colorado for $167,746. Total claims are over $37 million.

Many of the funders have personally talked to Mr. Schwartz, who recently is not returning many of the calls. Here are some of the comments without attribution from bank presidents, executive vice-presidents, leasing company presidents and CEO's:

"I have talked to Schwartz. He is in the flat out lie stage. He would (past tense) will say anything to appease or make caller comfortable. He did have a legit business for a long time."

"I did talk to Charles who said he would pay, but never did. My judgment is he was trying to get another line to survive. Given the amount of debt, small new lines would only be a band aid. Also, the story he was spinning to me was Medicare had procedure issues and that would be resolved and he would get big payments. All sounds like bullshit. A sinking ship with more than a small leak."

"I am not sure about Chuck yet. I do not think a scheme. That is called hope. I know someone who was there recently. He said the business is operating as usual. He was told a few large checks were coming in and they plan to get most current. I would not bank on it. There is either real hope or real futility for those owed money."

"He is not shut down and does not have a reduced staff. That means nothing more than that; but, it is better than shut down and/or a reduced staff. Of course, my guess is all units are out so he is bringing in money to pay himself. That does not mean all units financed ever existed. So, this will unfold. Of course, he may be trying to rake in what he can before he folds. No one knows yet. We will know soon."

"I was there recently. The place is very busy, very active. He was not available, but I did speak with him on the telephone. He assured me he would bring everything up to date. That was over a month ago and now he is three months past due."

"Prayers help but not in this situation. The good Lord has enough to do but to correct the stupidity of humans."

"When one thinks about it, our industry (money), can be perfect for the dishonest, the schemers, and liars. The comment that it is only a handful is true. But, the few wreak havoc. Good reporting."

John Kenny of Recovery Management says he has spoken to several creditors who called, and has made inquiries to Charles Schwartz, but no one has requested he get directly involved in the process (although he was successful in one.)

July 19th-- National Bank, Bettendorf, Iowa as the holder of three leases by First Premier Capital, Edina, Minnesota for 50 LifeCare Respirators costing $250,000 each. The demand is for $800,000, bringing the total in the suits over $20 million to date. Attorney Dennis Lenard responded August 10th, denying charges.

July 13th-- ABCO Leasing, Bothell, Washington filed against Allied Health Care Services, Orange, New Jersey as well as the guarantor Charles K. Schwartz. It regards two leases for a total of $400,000. Attorney Dennis Lenard responded August 4th, denying charges.

July 12th-- Onset Financial, South Jordan, Utah and CW Onset, a Utah limited company, on July 12, 2010 filed a $9,798,000. Not Served.

July 9th-- Crossroad Bank, Wabash, Indiana, formerly known as First Federal Savings Bank of Wabash filed for $144,788.20 plus attorney and court costs regarding respirators. Charles K. Schwartz served July 27, 2010. No response to date from attorney.

June 18th-- Commonwealth Capital Corporation filed 18 for $4,224,543.02 against the corporation and $1,792,893.82 against the personal guarantee of Charles K. Schwartz, "plus attorneys fees, costs, and interest, as well as all other relieve which this court deems just;" July 27, Scheduling Conference for 8/31/2010

May 18-- MinnWest Capital Corporation, Minnetonka, Minnesota, (subsidiary of MinnWest Bank Metro) $2,070,690 suit against Allied as well as the Charles Schwartz, president of the company, as personal guarantor to the corporation. August 5: CLERK'S QUALITY CONTROL MESSAGE - Please disregard Doc. #'s 13 & 14 [ANSWER TO CMP.] fld. by D. LENARD on 8/4/10. They were inadvertently fld. in wrong case. [SEE CIV. 10-3558] (DD, ) (Entered: 08/05/2010) ORDER ON ORAL MOTION: indicating a schedule for filing dispositive motions shall be addressed at the initial scheduling conference on 10/26/10 at 12:00 p.m. Signed by Magistrate Judge Claire C. Cecchi on 7/30/10. (sr, ) (Entered: 07/30/2010)

Another Financial Portal (anotherfp.com) announces the LEAF Financial is about to come to market and it may be the other $137.5M loan with Morgan appears still outstanding and not paid or extended (It came due 6/2010) as well as the LEAF Specialty portfolio. It reportedly will be LEAF Receivables Funding 4, LLC - Equipment Contract Backed Notes, Series 2010-3, consists of a collateral pool of pledged assets including a segregated pool consisting primarily of a pool of secured commercial loan contracts, finance leases and fair market value leases acquired or originated by Leaf Financial.

The deal is broken into five classes with the Class A notes being the largest tranche at $131.2 million. It is expected to be rated AAA by DBRS.

The Class B, C, D and E are sized at $13.8, $10.3, $8 and $8 million respectively. The notes are sequentially subordinate with no notes being paid any principal until the Class A notes are paid in full as so on sequentially.

According to DBRS, “The Collateral Pool securing the notes, as of the closing date, will consist primarily of hell-or-high water obligations including secured commercial business loans (approximately 54%), finance leases (approximately 30%), fair-market value leases (approximately 14%), and operating leases (approximately 2%) to commercial customers. The related equipment consists primarily of several types of small to mid ticket equipment including copiers, telecommunications equipment and computers. The Collateral Pool does include approximately 15% of large ticket equipment with original costs equal to or exceeding $300,000.

“The transaction structure and the Collateral Pool are similar to LEAF Financial’s previous term Rule 144a transaction with credit enhancement provided through overcollateralization, subordination, a cash reserve account and excess spread,” according to DBRS.

The initial overcollateralization is 5.75 percent of the initial Contract Pool principal balance.

NEW YORK----CIT Group Inc. (NYSE: CIT), a leading provider of financing to small businesses and middle market companies, announced that it successfully refinanced $3 billion of its first lien debt and prepaid the approximate $1 billion balance of such debt with available corporate cash. The new $3 billion of first lien debt issued under the amended credit facility matures in August 2015 and carries an interest rate of LIBOR + 4.50% with a 1.75% LIBOR floor. In conjunction with the refinancing, certain existing covenants associated with the first lien debt were also amended, providing the Company with greater flexibility.

“Our success in quickly repaying and refinancing our first lien debt will further reduce our funding costs as we focus on providing much needed financing to small business and middle market companies”

The Company has now repaid $4.5 billion, or 60%, of its original first lien debt and refinanced the balance at a lower cost and with more flexible terms.

“Our success in quickly repaying and refinancing our first lien debt will further reduce our funding costs as we focus on providing much needed financing to small business and middle market companies,” said John A. Thain, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.

Banc of America Securities LLC, Deutsche Bank Securities Inc. and Morgan Stanley Senior Funding, Inc. served as joint lead arrangers and joint bookrunners on the refinancing transaction. Bank of America, N.A. will continue to serve as Administrative Agent and Collateral Agent under the first lien credit facility.

Founded in 1908, CIT (NYSE: CIT) is a bank holding company with more than $40 billion in finance and leasing assets. It provides financing and leasing capital to its more than one million small business and middle market clients and their customers across more than 30 industries. CIT maintains leadership positions in small business and middle market lending, factoring, retail finance, aerospace, equipment and rail leasing, and global vendor finance. www.cit.com

Comic-book and action movie aficionados will be in heaven this week with the releases of “Scott Pilgrim vs. the World” and “The Expendables,” while DVD watchers will want to hit Netflix for a trio of terrific, unheralded releases (“Me and Orson Welles,” “L’Enfance Nue,” “Orlando”).

Scott Pilgrim vs. the World (Universal Pictures): Edgar Wright, the young director responsible for such fan favorites as “Shaun of the Dead” and “Hot Fuzz,” is just the right person to bring Bryan Lee O’Malley’s popular comic book to life in this crowd-pleasing action-comedy. Scott Pilgrim (Michael Cera) is a Toronto slacker in his early twenties whose time is divided between his band and his girlfriends. His life gets a sudden lift when he meets Ramona (Elizabeth Winstead), a skateboard-riding hipster who steals his heart. Only trouble is, in order to reach the love of his life, Scott has to literally fight his way past a group of ex-boyfriends. Filmed with an endless array of vivid colors and breathless jokes, this is a rollicking trip into its protagonist’s video game-fueled head.

The Expendables (Columbia Pictures): Viewers who bemoan the lack of real action movie stars these days will want to check out this testosterone-filled thriller, which manages to cast just about every single macho megastar of the last twenty years. The ringmaster is Sylvester Stallone, who does double-duty directing the movie and starring as Barney Ross, the tough-as-nails leader of a group of brawny mercenaries hired for the deadly task of overthrowing a foreign dictator. Said mercenaries include such shoot ‘em up veterans as Dolph Lundgren, Jet Li, and Jason Statham, with wry cameos by Bruce Willis, Mickey Rourke, and even Stallone’s ‘80s rival, Arnold Schwarzenegger. Moving nimbly from explosion to explosion, this modern-day “Dirty Dozen” fits in perfectly with Stallone’s recent odes to cinematic brawn (“Rocky Balboa,” “Rambo”).

Netflix tip: In honor of “The Expendables” and its fistful of aging but still feisty stars, visit Netflix for a muscular blast from the past with an action extravaganza from each of the performers. There’s Stallone in “First Blood,” Schwarzenegger in “The Terminator,” Willis in “Die Hard,” Lundgren in “Universal Soldier,” Li in “Once Upon a Time in China,” and Statham in “Revolver.”

New on DVD:

Me and Orson Welles(Warner Bros.): An endlessly fascinating figure, Orson Welles looms over this affectionate coming-of-age comedy-drama. Taking place in 1937, when the future director of “Citizen Kane” was a daring theater director about to debut with a controversial version of “Julius Caesar,” the movie compares the overbearing brilliance of Welles (uncannily played by Christian McKay) with the more modest ambition of Richard (Zac Efron). A young student aspiring to be an actor, Richard is awed by Welles, but will their bond survive when both men vie for the affections of Sonja (Claire Danes)? Best known for his loose-limbed portraits of modern youth, director Richard Linklater handles the period setting with grace and humor, always attuned to the emotional shifts of his characters.

L’Enfance Nue (Criterion): French cinema has an illustrious tradition of sensitive movies dealing with troubled children, and this 1968 gem has a special place near the top of that list. The story follows the misadventures of 10-year-old Francois (Michel Terrazon), a foster child whose erratic behavior has got him being shunted from one adopted family to the next. Desperately in need for love yet at the same time prone to disobedience and cruel pranks, Francois is already an outsider as he enters his teenage years. Will his new foster parents be able to reform him, or does more trouble wait for him ahead? Though often compared with Francois Truffaut’s classic “The 400 Blows,” Maurice Pialat’s film is a tougher and even more moving look at the pangs of childhood. With subtitles.

Orlando (Sony): One of today’s most striking actresses, Tilda Swinton is forever on the search for a movie to do justice to her angular beauty and air of almost alien lyricism. Her recent triumphs include “I Am Love” and a Best Supporting Actress Oscar for “Michael Clayton,” yet her signature movie may be this unique 1992 film, which is finally being released on DVD. In an eccentric move, she’s cast as the title character, a 16th-century nobleman who, following a request by the Queen of England, remains the same age (though not the same gender) even as the centuries pass him by. Directed by Sally Potter with a mischievous sense of style that’s more fun than most period pieces, the movie is a mind-bendingly witty tribute to Swinton’s adventurousness.

“16 week old German Shepherd Mix, super sweet. Loves other dogs, kids, and cats. He is very inquisitive and will likely be on the smaller size.

“I just arrived at Tails of Courage so they don't know too much about me, but let me tell you, I am a sweet boy, I am friendly with people and other dogs. As a matter of fact, my best friend is a 16 week old Cattledog that I met at my last shelter. I am now fostered in a home with other dogs of all ages and sizes. I love being scratched behind the ears.

“This dog is up to date on all shots, is microchipped and comes with 30 days free pet insurance.

“If you are interested in this pet, please download an application from our website at www.tailsofcourage.org and email to tailsofcourage@optonline.net, or send us an email and request an application. . We are NOT a shelter, please be respectful of the hours you call. Thank you.”

1521 - After a three-month siege, the Aztec capital of Tenochtitlan (today Mexico City) was conquered by Hernando Cortes and Spanish troops. With a population between 150,000 and 300,000, Tenochtitlan was set up so it would sustain its inhabitants while still protecting the local ecosystem. The Spanish conquest caused a human and ecological disaster of epic proportions.

1587- Manteo, chief of the Hatteras, was baptized into the Christian faith as a member of the Church of England, becoming the first Native American to become a Protestant.He was invested by Sir Walter Raleigh with the power of Lord of Roanoke and of Dasamonguepeuk. There were earlier baptisms of Native Americans by Roman Catholic priests in Florida.

1650-Of all the Indians the English colonists encountered in the colonies, none were more powerful or better organized than the Iroquois. The five tribes—Mohawk, Oneida, Onodaga, Cayuga, and Seneca---were concentrated in New York in that order between the Hudson River and the Genesse River to the west.Their league, possibly organized as early as 1570, numbered no more than 25,000 persons by about 1650, but it dominated others in all directions. Their particular enemies were the Hurons to the north, who with their French allies dominated the fur trade.In 1649 the Iroquois won a resounding victory over the Hurons; in 1651 they nearly wiped out the Neutral National along the northern shore of Lake Erie; and in 1656 they defeated and dispersed the Eries. They continued to increase their power and became allies of the English after the Dutch lost New Netherland.As a result, the Iroquois were a serious problem for the patriot forces during the American Revolution. The estimated colonial population was 51,700.

1680 - War started when the Spanish were expelled from Santa Fe, New Mexico, by Indians under Chief Pope. 1689-The legend of the naming of Nix Mate's Island in Massachusetts Bay originated. Captain Nix anchored his boat off the nameless island one night. Screams were heard by the inhabitants of Boston, and investigators found the captain murdered.His mate was accused, tried, and sentenced to hang.As a final statement the mate said that the island would wash away as proof of his innocence. by the beginning of the nineteenth century, a good portion of Nix Mate's Island had disappeared.

1722-Governor Alexander Spotswood of Virginia signsa treaty with the League of Six Nations, an Iroquois confederation that included the Tuscarora tribe.The Indians agreed not to cross the Potomic River or Blue Ridge Mountains.

1744—A new Indian treaty signed with the Iroquois League of Lancaster PA, ceded to England the territory of the Ohio River Valley north of the Ohio River

1784 - The United States Legislature met for the final time in Annapolis, Maryland. It moved a few more times, from Philadelphia, PA to New York City and, finally, to its permanent seat of government in Washington, DC.

1818-Birthday of Lucy Stone, American women's rights pioneer, born near West Brookfield, MA.Lucy Stone dedicated her life to the abolition of slavery and the emancipation of women. Although she graduated from Oberlin College, she had to finance her education by teaching for nine years because her father did not favor college education for women. An eloquent speaker for her cause, she headed the list of 89 men and women who signed the call to the first national Women's Rights Convention, held at Worcester, MA.October, 1850.On May 1, 1855, she married Henry Blackwell. She and her husband aided in the founding of the American Suffrage Association, taking part in numerous referendum campaigns to win suffrage amendments to state constitutions. She died Oct 18, 1893 at Dorchester, MA..

1831 - A blue sun was widely observed in the southern states. The phenomena was believed to have pre-staged Nat Turner's slave uprising.

1860- Annie Oakley was born at Darke County, OH. She developed an eye as a

markswoman early as a child, becoming so proficient that she was able to pay off the mortgage on her family farm by selling the game she killed. A few years after defeating vaudeville marksman Frank Butler in a shooting match, she married him and they toured as a team until joining Buffalo Bill's Wild West Show in 1885. She was one of the star attractions for 17 years She died Nov 3, 1926, at Greenville, OH.

1889- William Gray of Hartford, CT, received a patent on a “coin-controlled apparatus for telephones” The first pay telephone was installed in the lobby of the Hartford Bank in 1889 under the supervision of Ellis Benjamin Baker, superintendent of the Southern New England Telephone Company.In 1891, Gray, with Amos Whitney and Francis Pratt, incorporated the Gray Telephone Pay Station Company and installed the telephone in stores on a leasing basis.The company rented out the pay phones for 25 percent of the take.Ten percent of the take went to the place of business, and 65 percent went to the telephone company.

1899- Alfred Hitchcock birthday, English film director and master of suspense born at London. Hitchcock's career as a filmmaker dates back to the silent film era when he made The Lodger in 1926, based on the tale of Jack the Ripper. American audiences were introduced to the Hitchcock style in 1935 with The Thirty-Nine Steps and The Lady Vanishes in 1938, after which he went to Hol­lywood. There he produced a string of classics including Rebecca, Suspicion, Notorious, Rear Window, To Catch a Thief, The Birds, Psycho and Frenzy, in addition to his TV series “Alfred Hitchcock Presents.” He died Apr 29, 1980, at Beverly Hills, CA.

1912-Birthday of Golfer Ben Hogan, born at Dublin, TX.Hogan was won of only four players to win all four major professional championships, and his 63-career victories rank him third after Sam Snead and Jack Nicklaus. Died at Ft. Worth, TX, July 25, 1997.

1919 - At Saratoga, New York, the previously undefeated racehorse, Man o' War, was defeated by Upset. Legend had it this turn of events so upset Man o' War, he never lost a race again. After wining 1,300 races he went on to sire 379 foals, for a $5,000 stud fee.

1924 - "The Prisoner's Song" by Vernon Dalhart became the first country record to sell one million copies. The album included the songs "The Prisoner's Song", "Molly Darling", "Death of Floyd Collins" and "New River Train" which helped Dalhart outsell all others of his era by about 75 million records. In 1981, He became a Country Music Hall of Famer.

1934 - Cartoonist Al Capp began his famous comic strip, "Li'l Abner". In those early days, the cartoon strip was carried in eight newspapers. Eventually, it would be in more than 500, and would be the basis for a Broadway play and a Hollywood movie, toohttp://www.lil-abner.com/cappbio.html

1935- The first roller derby competition took place in Chicago, staged by promoter Leo Seltzer.

1942—Soviet Premier Joseph Stalin wrote both to England's Prime Minister

Winston Churchill and American President F.D.Roosevelt, appealing for

them to help in the war in Europe against Germany. Not trusting the dictator,

and wanting to protect the oil in Northern Africa, they invaded there first,

and whatever relationship they had began to unravel even before it started.

1948 - Rookie pitcher Satchel Paige of the Cleveland Indians tossed his first full game in the major leagues. During the game he allowed the Chicago White Sox only five hits, winning the game 5-0. The rookie pitcher was 42 years old.

1951- Every one who shows up with a musical instrument is admitted free to Ebbets Field. Two thousand fans take advantage of the Musical Depreciation Night promotion including a man who brings a piano.

1952 - The original version of "Hound Dog" was recorded by Willie Mae (Big Mama) Thornton. It was the first hit for the song-writing team of Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller. Musician-composer Johnny Otis ("Willie and the Hand Jive") said he helped Leiber and Stoller with the writing of "Hound Dog". All was fine as long as Big Mama Thornton was doin' the singing (Otis was her producer); but as soon as the Elvis version started bringing in the bucks, Otis was cut out of the picture. Otis went to court but lost the suit. He was a popular Los Angeles disc jockey as well as band leader, playing at the San Jose Fairmont, while painting, which got to be so popular, he moved to Santa Rose where he devotes his full energy toward painting.

1952--KILMER, JOHN E. Medal of Honor
Rank and organization: Hospital Corpsman, U.S. Navy, attached to duty as a medical corpsman with a Marine rifle company in the 1st Marine Division. Place and date: Korea, 13 August 1952. Entered service at: Houston, Tex. Born: 15 August 1930, Highland Park, Ill. Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty in action against enemy aggressor forces. With his company engaged in defending a vitally important hill position well forward of the main line of resistance during an assault by large concentrations of hostile troops, HC Kilmer repeatedly braved intense enemy mortar, artillery, and sniper fire to move from 1 position to another, administering aid to the wounded and expediting their evacuation. Painfully wounded himself when struck by mortar fragments while moving to the aid of a casualty, he persisted in his efforts and inched his way to the side of the stricken marine through a hail of enemy shells falling around him. Undaunted by the devastating hostile fire, he skillfully administered first aid to his comrade and, as another mounting barrage of enemy fire shattered the immediate area, unhesitatingly shielded the wounded man with his body. Mortally wounded by flying shrapnel while carrying out this heroic action, HC Kilmer, by his great personal valor and gallant spirit of self-sacrifice in saving the life of a comrade, served to inspire all who observed him. His unyielding devotion to duty in the face of heavy odds reflects the highest credit upon himself and enhances the finest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for another.
1956---Top Hits

My Prayer - The Platters( one of my old time favorites )

Hound Dog/Don't Be Cruel - Elvis Presley

Whatever Will Be Will Be (Que Sera Sera) - Doris Day

I Walk the Line - Johnny Cash

1963- At County Stadium, Warren Spahn hurls a complete game beating Los Angeles, 4-3. During the game, the crafty southpaw whiffs five Dodgers to establish the all-time strike out record for left-handers with 2,382.
1964---Top Hits

A Hard Day's Night - The Beatles

Everybody Loves Somebody - Dean Martin

Where Did Our Love Go - The Supremes

Dang Me - Roger Miller

1965- The Jefferson Airplane makes it stage debut at the Matrix Club in San Francisco. Before the year's out, they'll become the first San Francisco rock group to sign a major recording contract.

1965- The Beatles "Help!" single is released.

1966- The Supremes' "You Can't Hurry Love" is released.
1966-"Summer in the City" by The Lovin' Spoonful hit the top of the Billboard singles chart. The song started out as a poem written by John Sebastian's brother, Mark, before the band changed some words and then set it to music.

1969- In a 6-4 defeat to the Reds, Bobby Bonds becomes the fourth player in major league history steal at least 30 bases and hit at least thirty home runs in the same season. The other members of the 30/30 club include Ken Williams (1922-Browns) , Willie Mays (1956 & 1957-Giants) and Hank Aaron (1963-Braves).
1969 -- Oriole Jim Palmer hurls a no-hitter against the A's, the 8-0 victory gives Baltimore a comfortable 14 and a half game lead in the first American League East Division race ever.

1972---Top Hits

Alone Again (Naturally) - Gilbert O'Sullivan

Brandy (You're a Fine Girl) - Looking Glass

(If Loving You is Wrong) I Don't Want to Be Right - Luther Ingram

Bless Your Heart - Freddie Hart & The Heartbeats

1975- Marking his first real appearance on the national radar, Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band perform the first of five sold-out shows at New York's Bottom Line.
1979- Outfielder Lou Brock of the St. Louis Cardinals got the 3,000th hit of his career, an infield single against Dennis Lamp and the Chicago Cubs.Brock finished his career that season with 3,023 hits.

1979- Cheap Trick has the biggest hit of their career, "I Want You to Want Me." The tune was originally on their second L.P., "In Color," which came out in 1977. However the song took off when it was included on the "Live at Budokan" album. The record goes gold on this date.

1980 - The afternoon high at New York City was just 89 degrees. But there were fifteen days of 90 degree heat during the month, their hottest August of record

1980---Top Hits

Magic - Olivia Newton-John

Take Your Time (Do It Right) - The S.O.S. Band

Sailing - Christopher Cross

Stand by Me - Mickey Gilley

1986 - United States Football League standout Herschel Walker signed to play with the Dallas Cowboys of the National Football League. Walker's contract paid an estimated $5 million over five years. He had been playing for the New Jersey Generals before the USFL went out of business.

number one when they were in Brooklyn, but today, it is only the Cubs!!!

1988- Boston Red Sox win AL record 24 straight home games.

1988---Top Hits

Roll with It - Steve Winwood

Hands to Heaven - Breathe

Make Me Lose Control - Eric Carmen

Don't Close Your Eyes - Keith Whitley

1988 - A dozen cities in the northeastern U.S. reported record high temperatures for the date. Lansing MI reported a record 35 days of 90 degree weather for the year, Detroit MI reported a record 37 days of 90 degree heat for the year, and Williamsport PA reported a record 38 days of 90 degree weather for the year

2003- After missing nearly three months with a groin injury, Mike Piazza makes a dramatic return to the New York lineup as he homers and drives in five runs on Italian Night at Shea Stadium. The backstop's 3-for-5 performance, including a home run in the third inning, RBI single in the fourth and a two-run single in the seventh, contributes to the Mets 9-2 victory over the Giants.

Here are three “choice” short poems from Tim Peeler, from his book “Touching All the Bases.” He has given us permission to reproduce them.

Budweiser!

Budweiser! he calls
between innings, between pitches,
between breaths

An Asterisk as Big as a Ball

the ball talked to
three hundred thirty feet of air,
rising into the teeth
of the bat's echo,
crashing into right field bleachers
like any other Yankee missile —
an exiled hero
circled the Ruthian diamond
to footnote glory —
just down the first base line
the magic bat lay,
like a gun that had killed
its owner.

whiskey moon

frank says the full moon
is for whiskey,
spits tobacco to punctuate
his short sentences,
hours sipping, replaying
his career in slow motion,
oiling the first baseman's mitt,
then spreading it carefully
to catch the milky light,
frank says it softens the leather,
I say it embalms the memory.

These come from a soft cover 128 pages
with index published by www.mcfarlandpub.com
( they take two weeks to send, but you are helping
this company stay alive, or you can buy from
Amazon, for the same price, but perhaps faster
delivery. While they are all mostly baseball,
some are not. He is a unique American poet.
He lives in Hickory, North Carolina.